Waddy Thompson, Jr.

Who was Waddy Thompson, Jr.?

Waddy Thompson, Jr. was a U.S. Representative from South Carolina.

Born in Pickensville, Ninety-Six District, South Carolina. Thompson moved to Greenville with his parents in his infancy. He received his early education in neighboring schools, and was graduated from South Carolina College in 1814.

He studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1819, beginning practice in Edgefield, South Carolina. He moved to Greenville, South Carolina, and continued the practice of law. He served as member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1826 to 1829. Thompson was elected solicitor of the western circuit in 1830.

He was appointed brigadier general of militia in 1832.

Thompson was elected as an Anti-Jacksonian to the 24th United States Congress to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Warren R. Davis. He was reelected as a Whig to the 25th and 26th Congresses and served from September 10, 1835, to March 3, 1841.

He served as chairman of the Committee on Military Affairs. He was not a candidate for renomination in 1840.

He was appointed Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Mexico and served from February 10, 1842, to March 9, 1844.